The 2013 British & Irish Lions tour of Australia will be shown exclusively live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland.

The Lions kick off their eagerly-awaited tour with a game against the Barbarians in Hong Kong on June 1 with their first trip to Australia since 2001 also set to feature games against all of Australia's Super Rugby sides and three Tests versus the Wallabies.

The latest deal with Sky Sports extends a relationship dating back to the victorious tour to South Africa in 1997 and spanning the three subsequent tours.

Lions chief executive John Feehan said: "We are absolutely delighted that Sky will be showing the British & Irish Lions tour to Australia and Hong Kong live next year."

He added: "Over the last number of tours we have come to expect only the best coverage and huge commitment from Sky to showcase the best of British & Irish rugby talent.

"This continued support from Sky is particularly welcome for next year, which will mark our 125th anniversary as the British & Irish Lions."

The Lions are set to announce their coach later this year with Wales boss Warren Gatland expected to take charge of the elite tourists for the 10-game tour.